What is the common method for serving cocktails with bitters?

The common method for serving cocktails with bitters involves stirring the bitters into the drink. This technique is important because it ensures that the bitters are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, allowing their complex flavors to enhance the overall taste of the cocktail. Bitters are concentrated flavorings, and when they are stirred in, they integrate well with the other ingredients, creating a balanced drink.

The stirring method also helps to maintain the intended texture and mouthfeel of the cocktail, preserving the clarity and visual appeal. In many classic cocktails, such as an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan, this approach is traditional and vital for the overall character of the drink.

While other methods can be used, like layering on top for specific presentation purposes, stirring is the most conventional and effective way to incorporate bitters into cocktails for flavor enhancement. This is why stirring is recognized as the standard technique in cocktail preparation involving bitters.